England’s year-long reign at the summit was ended by the 51-run loss at Lord’s on Monday, which saw them slip to a 2-0 series defeat.

But Anderson, a senior figure within the dressing-room and leader of the bowling attack, believes Strauss, 35, can lead England back to No.1.

Asked if he thought his captain might be considering his position after a poor run with the bat and six defeats in 11 Tests this year, Anderson said: ‘I hope not.

‘Straussy has been pivotal in everything we have achieved. He is a huge part of our team and bigger than people realise. As players I can speak for everyone and say we hope he carries on for a few more years yet.

‘I don’t think he is considering it [qutting the captanicy] judging by the way he was this week. It was his 100th Test and you could see how much he still loved it. Now we have lost the No.1 spot I am sure he is very hungry to get us back there.’

The build-up to the final Test was dominated by the Kevin Pietersen saga.Anderson, though, insists the whole squad would welcome Pietersen back if he resolves his problems with Strauss − who it is alleged he criticised in one of his texts to South African players − and the England & Wales Cricket Board.

‘The biggest thing is Straussy’s relationship with him,’ said Anderson. ‘To be honest, Straussy has so much respect as a captain and a leader we will back him to the hilt whatever he and the ECB decide.’

Regardless of what Pietersen’s future holds, England face a tough end to the year with a four-Test series in India, and Anderson admitted: ‘If you want to be No.1 in the world you have to win in India and all these different places. So why not start with a win there?’